CycleOps

PowerSync Trainer

CycleOps PowerSync Trainer

Build strength and endurance on CycleOps' PowerSync trainer so you can take long pulls off the front of the pack or power up your favorite climb when spring comes. Connect with your phone, computer, or GPS (each sold separately) to track heart rate, speed, cadence, and power measurements; all the data you need to meet and exceed your goals. Its closed-loop resistance means you can choose a power output or slope and drill it for as long as the segment demands. A spring-loaded skewer system, wide footprint, leveling feet, and 3 easily adjustable clamping positions makes set-up simple and stable. And, with CycleOps' VirtualTraining you have the globe at your disposal to create and ride pre-existing, exciting routes and race against others; the possibilities are almost endless.

I have been using Trainer Road for a year now for structured training and I bought the CycleOps PowerSync recently to enable TR to control the resistance of the trainer. So far, so good. It works very well, save for short intervals of 30 seconds or less when it is necessary to switch to a manual mode to keep time with the intervals and get the power on quicker (but that's probably down to the TR controlling software rather than the PowerSync).
I use this is tandem with a Powertap G3 hub in my rear wheel. If the unit is calibrated then the readings are consistent from the trainer, albeit about 6-7% higher than those provided by the G3. This is slightly frustrating given that they are from the same 'stable', but manageable by factoring this into my target power levels.

1 week into training and it hurts. The Powertap influenced turbo really replicates hills well. Video is amazing. Weirdly, I have used google images (stills) which gives a good impression of surrounding areas though obviously is just moving through static images slowly.

This is the only trainer that I have ever used so I have nothing to compare it to. Received as a gift almost 2 years ago. Used only when it is cold or miserable outside, or need to workout during a game.

Been using the fuild trainer for 3 seasons. Since I live in MN, we got 2 seasons. Cold windy winters and road construction. The fuild feels like you summer breeze on your legs. The rasters you go the higher the drag. Off to get the breeze going.

Everything has worked as advertised thus far. Easy set up and really enjoying the Virtual Trainer video routes. As I'd read elsewhere there is a little delay from when the VT grade indicator changes to when the resistance changes on the trainer, but it's minor.
The trainer itself feels solid and stable. I weigh 200lbs and didn't have an issue getting out of the saddle for more leverage while climbing.
My setup: Ant+ connection to iPad2 (with Ant+ key) running VT software. Using AirPlay in mirror mode on iPad with Apple TV to display video on my HDTV.

SETUP: We bought the PowerSync about 3 weeks ago. It was really easy to put together. We connected it to a PC (Windows 8) without any trouble. The PC is connected to a TV. Downloaded the virtual trainer software and got going! I bought another rear wheel skewer and we're able to switch bikes to my wife's bike really quickly.
EXPERIENCE: We really enjoy riding on this trainer over previous trainer's we've owned. The biggest differences are the automatic resistance changes to match the profile of the route, and the video of the route you're on. If you're going up a hill, the resistance gets higher. If you're going downhill, the resistance is less, but you still need to pedal to keep the video going. We really enjoy riding courses around the world! We've rode in Belgium, Germany, France, Red Rocks Colorado, San Francisco and South Africa in beautiful landscapes. Quite a change from winter snow in Wisconsin! The virtual training with video is a difference maker for keeping you interested in the ride. My kids are even entertained by the video enough to watch while I'm riding. I find that I'm able to ride and stay interested much longer than on other trainers where I'm looking at a wall. It's just like the real road experience except you don't have stop for traffic or worry about hitting a squirrel.
CONCLUSION: This is a neat machine and I'm glad we got it. Its going to keep me in biking shape over the winter so we can go further and faster next spring. After seeing it live, my dad bought one too and also loves it. He uses the iPad app. Highly recommended!